Kia has recently introduced two new variants of its popular SUV, the Kia Sonet. These new additions, named the HTE (O) and HTK (O), are based on the existing HTE and HTK trims, respectively. With these new variants, Kia aims to make the Sonet more accessible and feature-rich for its customers.
Affordable Pricing with Added Features
The HTE (O) variant is priced from Rs 8.19 lakh to Rs 10 lakh, while the HTK (O) variant is available between Rs 9.25 lakh and Rs 10.85 lakh. Both variants offer a choice of petrol and diesel engines, but they come only with a manual shifter. The key highlight of the HTE (O) variant is the inclusion of a sunroof and a sunglass holder, which were previously available in the next-in-line HTK variant. The HTK (O) variant takes it a notch higher by offering a sunroof, auto AC, connected LED taillights, and a rear defogger.
Variant-wise Price Comparison
Here's a quick comparison of the new variants with their base counterparts:
Petrol Variants:
- HTE (O): Rs 8.19 lakh (Rs 20,000 more than the HTE variant).
- HTK (O): Rs 9.25 lakh (Rs 36,000 more than the HTK variant).
Diesel Variants:
- HTE (O): Rs 10 lakh (Rs 20,000 more than the HTE variant).
- HTK (O): Rs 10.85 lakh (Rs 35,000 more than the HTK variant).
Enhanced Features for a Better Driving Experience
The base-spec HTE variant already comes equipped with features like manually adjustable ORVMs, a semi-digital instrument cluster, front power windows, and manual AC with rear vents. The HTK trim adds an 8-inch touchscreen, a 6-speaker sound system, keyless entry, a height-adjustable driver seat, and all-four power windows. Both variants share safety features such as six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), and a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS). Additionally, the HTK variant includes front parking sensors for added convenience.
Engine and Gearbox Options
The new variants are available with the following powertrains:
- 1.2-litre N/A Petrol: 83 PS power, 115 Nm torque, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission.
- 1.5-litre Diesel: 116 PS power, 250 Nm torque, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission.
The higher-spec diesel variants of the Sonet also offer 6-speed iMT (manual without the clutch pedal) and 6-speed automatic gearbox options. Moreover, Kia provides the Sonet's higher variants with a 120 PS 1-litre turbo-petrol engine mated to either a 6-speed iMT or a 7-speed DCT (dual-clutch automatic transmission).
Competing in a Crowded Segment
The Kia Sonet faces stiff competition in the sub-4m SUV segment, going up against the likes of the Maruti Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Mahindra XUV300, Tata Nexon, Renault Kiger, and Nissan Magnite. It also serves as an alternative to sub-4m crossover SUVs such as the Maruti Fronx and the upcoming Toyota Taisor. With the introduction of the new HTE (O) and HTK (O) variants, Kia aims to strengthen its position in this highly competitive market by offering more features at an accessible price point.